On the first day of the program you will take a proficiency test to determine your level of Japanese. The test consists of written and interview. Classes are divided into three levels: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. If you have never studied Japanese, we will place you in a class according to your objective in studying Japanese and how long you plan to study.

Unfortunately the YMCA School doesn’t have a dormitory. Majority of the students studying here live in an apartment or privately owned dormitory. We will be glad to introduce you to a real estate agent and or a landlord. You may choose your room after you have seen it yourself after your arrival. Until you decide on a place, you have an option to stay at the YMCA Hotel at a discount price. (Single room per day is 3,780 yen.) The YMCA School is a member of International Student Housing General Insurance, therefore if you join this insurance the YMCA School will act as your guarantor.

Classes are held from 9 am to 1 pm, Monday to Friday (four 50 minute long classes). There will be 2 to 3 week spring, summer, fall and winter vacation.

There is a student discount for Toei subway (Mita, Shinjuku, Asakusa, Ooeido Lines), Toei Bus, and Toden.

Most students are from Asia, such as Korea and China. Currently students from 8 different countries are studying at YMCA. We welcome students from all over the world.

Many students enter university and/or vocational college. However there are some who start working after the program.

Yes, instructions are held only in Japanese. It’s a rule not to use other languages. Since students are from different countries, Japanese is the common language of communication. We encourage students to use Japanese even during breaks.

Is it difficult to get a college student visa? Students need to show a strong commitment to studying Japanese as well as financial security to pay for tuition, living expenses and other related costs.
If you have specific questions that we have not answered here, please consult us individually.